In Principio v16 no1 (2005)

AROUND I THE UNIVERSITY A SIGNIFICANT ECUMENICAL RELATIONSHIP Late in 2004, Notre Dame hosted the Anglican Church's General Synod. Delegates came to Fremantle from all over Australia. Seen as a significant motion was the adoption of a comprehensive range of measures to address abuse and ensure safe ministry practices. There were a number of debates on issues such as women bishops and ecumenical relations particularly with the Islamic and Jewish communities. Archbishop Peter Jensen of Sydney said that the University was a superb venue and had provided the best facilities enjoyed by the General Synod in his long experience of attending such gatherings. Members recognised publicly the generosity of the University and the cooperation and assistance, with a resolution carried by acclamation during the final session. The General Synod was chaired by the Primate of the Anglican Church, Archbishop Peter Carnley of Perth who retired in US CONSUL GENERAL VISITS NOTRE DAME Ms Robin McClellan, the Consul General of the United States of America, visited the University in January. Ms McClellan expressed an interest in visiting Notre Dame in light of the number of American students who study at the University. Notre Dame has established formal exchange agreements with a number of Catholic universities in the United States. The "Study Abroad" program allows students to spend one or two semesters at the Fremantle Campus. Students have the opportunity to study and experience a unique Australian academic environment. They have the option to visit Broome and interact with Indigenous communities as well as participating in programs such as marine systems and business units specific to the Australian and Asian regions. Approximately 5% of Notre Dame's international student population is made up of students from the USA. February 2005 after 24 years as Archbishop of Perth and five years as Head of the Anglican Church in Australia. & Anglican Archbishop Dr. Peter Carnley with Vice Chancellor Dr. Peter Tannock. Given the large number of American students at Notre Dame, it is seen as a priority to maintain a close association between the Consulate and the University. I I! & US Consul General, Robin McClellan, and visiting American Business lecturer, Matt Bloom. DINNER AUCTION RAISES FUNDS FOR THE NEW MEDICAL SCHOOL The Dinner Auction held in November 2004 was a great success. Members of Western Australia's business, professional and local community came together in a social setting to support the fundraising efforts for the School of Medicine. Apart from being an enjoyable evening of fine wine and fantastic food, the University was overwhelmed by the generosity and support for the new School of Medicine. Items donated included an Argyle diamond, a hamper from St Vincent's Parish Kwinana, artwork, wine, luxury accommodation - and even a kitchen sink! All proceeds raised from the auction have contributed to providing facilities, equipment and resources for the Medical School in Henry Street, Fremantle. CHURCHILL FELLOW PARTNERS WITH NOTRE DAME'S COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICE Fremantle resident, and until recently Manager of the City of Fremantle's Strategic Planning and Corporate Development, Jill Hanna, was awarded a Churchill Fellowship in 2004. The Fellowship allowed her to undertake study overseas in which Ms Hanna examined the partnerships between town universities and their community via local government. In conducting her research Ms Hannawent t o the USA and the UK to experience university townsfirst hand and chose sites that w ere known for best practice II in terms of engaging the community and building partnerships between them and the universities. Ms Hanna has accepted an invitation from Michelle Ebbs, Manager of the Community Relations Office, to join the Advisory Committee. Ms Hanna's experience with the City of Fremantle and her research of university towns through the Churchill Fellowship should prove invaluable to Notre Dame. Her f eedback and expertise will assist in further building a relationship with the _.. Churchill Fellowship recipient Jill Hanna. community.